Camp Smile-A-Mile

Camp Smile-A-Mile (SAM) is a life-changing summer camp experience for children and teenagers aged 7–18 who are battling or have survived cancer. Located at Children’s Harbor on beautiful Lake Martin in Alabama, this camp provides a safe, medically supervised environment where campers can enjoy the joys of childhood while building resilience and forming lasting friendships. Founded in 1985, Camp SAM has grown to include year-round programming for young cancer patients, their families, and survivors—all offered completely free of charge. What Makes Camp Smile-A-Mile Special? Camp Smile-A-Mile is more than just a camp—it’s a supportive community that fosters healing, joy, and hope. Here’s what sets it apart: Medically Supervised Environment: Qualified medical personnel from Children’s of Alabama’s Hematology-Oncology Department are on-site to provide care, including administering chemotherapy if needed. Inclusive Programming: Camp SAM welcomes children at all stages of their cancer journey, as well as their siblings and families. Completely Free: Thanks to generous donors and volunteers, all programs are offered at no cost to participants. Activities at Camp Smile-A-Mile Campers participate in a variety of fun and engaging activities designed to promote confidence, creativity, and connection: Outdoor Adventures: Archery Fishing Swimming Canoeing and kayaking Sailing and snorkeling Sports & Recreation: Basketball Tennis Volleyball Creative Arts: Arts and crafts Ceramics Painting Pottery Evening Events: Talent shows Campfires with music and storytelling Programs Offered Camp Smile-A-Mile provides tailored sessions to meet the unique needs of its participants: Youth Camp (Ages 6–12): A weeklong camp filled with outdoor activities and creative projects. Teen Camp (Ages 13–18): A weeklong session offering age-appropriate activities like boating, archery, and team-building exercises. Sibling Camp: For siblings of cancer patients, providing them with a supportive environment to connect with others who understand their experiences. Family Retreats: Sessions for patients and their families to relax, bond, and enjoy fun activities together. Young Adult Retreats (Ages 19–25): Focused on long-term survivorship topics such as career planning, health management, and personal growth. Why Choose Camp Smile-A-Mile? Camp SAM offers a unique blend of recreation, education, and emotional support: Healing Through Fun: The camp provides opportunities for children to enjoy life beyond their diagnosis while building resilience. Supportive Community: Participants form meaningful connections with peers who share similar experiences. Expert Care: With medical staff on-site, parents can feel confident that their child’s health needs will be met. Program Details Location: Children’s Harbor on Lake Martin, Alabama Eligibility: Children aged 7–18 who are current or former cancer patients; siblings and families for specific sessions Cost: Free Facilities: Comfortable cabins Dining hall with nutritious meals Waterfront access for aquatic activities Arts & crafts studios Final Thoughts Camp Smile-A-Mile is more than just a summer camp—it’s a sanctuary where children with cancer can rediscover joy, build confidence, and create lifelong memories. With its wide range of activities, dedicated staff, and focus on healing through community, Camp SAM provides an invaluable experience for campers and their families. If your child or family is navigating the challenges of pediatric cancer, Camp Smile-A-Mile offers hope, laughter, and smiles that stretch "a mile wide."